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How to protect your herd against EHD?
Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) is a viral disease, which can considerably weaken cows. Reduced milk production, lower feed intake and slower growth in young animals cause economic damage.
By understanding how the disease occurs, what symptoms are involved and how to protect your cows, you can reduce the impact of EHD.
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What causes EHD?
EHD, caused by an Orbivirus, primarily affects cattle and cervids. This virus is transmitted exclusively by midges from the Culicoides genus, which thrive in warm and humid climates, particularly at the end of summer. Climate change exacerbates this phenomenon, thus increasing the risk for livestock.
Unlike other cattle diseases, EHD poses no risk to humans, whether through the consumption of meat or milk.
How is the virus transmitted?
Only Culicoides midges can transmit EHD. They infect an animal by biting an infected cow, then can spread the virus to a healthy animal during their next bite.
It is important to note that EHD is not contagious between animals: an infected cow cannot transmit the disease directly to other cows. The spread depends solely on the presence of these biting insects, which are particularly active in warm and humid areas.
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Symptoms of EHD in cattle
While most infected cattle remain asymptomatic, some show clinical signs that can affect their productivity. These symptoms weaken the animals and directly impact farm performance.
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- Moderate to high fever
- Lameness, related to limb lesions
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Breathing difficulties
- Erosion or ulcers on the muzzle or inside the month
5 preventive measures against EHD in cattle
Protecting your animals from EHD requires a combined strategy, including environmental management, vaccination, and active monitoring.:format(webp))
Limit waste and optimize cleaning
To limit the proliferation of midges, manage manure, leftover food, and excreta effectively, as their moisture creates ideal breeding grounds. Ensure regular cleaning of feeding areas and avoid the accumulation of organic matter. Proper storage of bedding and manure is crucial to prevent the creation of favorable conditions for midge reproduction.:format(webp))
Insecticide treatment for your animals
With a veterinarian's prescription, you can apply suitable external parasiticides, such as pyrethroids. These treatments help limit midge attacks, although they do not eliminate them entirely. Their effectiveness usually lasts 7 to 10 days.:format(webp))
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Monitor symptoms
Early detection of clinical signs, such as fever or lameness, is essential to minimize the impact of EHD. Be attentive to unusual behavior.:format(webp))
Vaccination: an essential tool
A specific vaccine against serotype 8 is available and recommended. It reduces the risk of infection, clinical symptoms, and slows the spread of the virus within herds. Vaccination is particularly effective at the end of summer and in the autumn. Consult your veterinarian to incorporate this measure into your health strategy.:format(webp))
Protect your herd against EHD
Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease can be controlled with simple and effective preventive measures. Protect your cattle today by combining biosecurity, building optimization, and vaccination.
For more information, contact your veterinarian or consult the official recommendations from health authorities.
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